Tampa Bay Rays News and Links: we can’t get enough of Randy

What will the Rays 2021 roster look like? One of the first decisions the Rays have to make is who to protect from the Rule 5 draft. Neil Solondz provides an overview.

Juan Toribio previews a Rays possible opening day roster. Don’t assume Charlie Morton and Mike Zunino won’t be back.

In addition to awarding individual Gold Glove awards, MLB has added an award for team defense, based on an index of defensive metrics. The Rays were rated fourth in the American League. Interestingly they scored high on the quality of their outfield, but their infield and catcher defense got low grades.

Buster Olney has a list of free agents who won’t break the bank.

The free agent market in this winter of uncertainty is likely to be subdued, per Fangraphs.

I did not know that MLB had a “legendary moments” award. Brett Phillips has been recognized for his walk-off RBI in Game 4 of the World Series:

Randy Arozarena’s story, from his escape from Cuba to his record breaking 2020 postseason, may become a movie! ($) Fun to think who will play Randy, as well as key Rays personnel.

And for more Randy content, check out this interview with Carlos Peña.

Ji-Man Choi is donating supplies in to Glendale Community College:

Nine members of the Dodgers organization have tested positive for COVID-19 since the end of the World Series. It’s not clear from these reports whether these were players, coaches, or off-field personnel.

With the collective bargaining agreement set to expire at the end of next season, and COVID-19 likely continuing to play a role in our lives next spring, the Major League Baseball Players Association and the major league owners clearly have a lot to discuss ($)

I’m shocked, shocked that Alex Cora will be back with the Red Sox after serving his one-year suspension ($)